Rippling Waters...

You know what I love most about my mother? She left a mark on literally every person she encountered. Even now, almost 9 years after she passed, people still come up to me and mention how she effected them. I want to be that kind of person. What will my legacy be really?

I've had a tremendous response so far in my fundraising efforts. Thank you all who have participated. It's inspiring to me to see how one person can make a difference. No, I haven't solved world hunger, aids, cancer, or violence among men, but in my little corner of the earth, I'm helping. Imagine what could be accomplished if everyone contributed just a little bit. I honestly believe we could change the world.

I might sound naive to some people. I can accept that. I just know that it's possible to be part of something bigger than myself. 2,000 years ago, one man changed the world forever. It would be so easy to say "sure HE did it, HE was GOD", but the truth is, He invites us to follow His example. He gave us the power to move mountains! I'm just getting my arms around that idea. I'll start small. I'll start with the YMCA.

Where will you start?

What an EXCELLENT Birthday!

I couldn't have asked for a nicer birthday!

Heidi took me to her salon on saturday and treated me to a full day's beauty. I got my hair colored, a facial, THE WORKS! Heidi really knows how to make a girl feel special.
Marie met up with us and we went to a movie. Then it was on to shopping! After we wore ourselves out, we closed our day with dinner at my favorite resturant Cracker Barrel. YUMMMMM. It was so nice just being out with my friends. I couldn't have planned a better day.
Yesterday was my actual birthday. I was spoiled beyond words. Breakfast with Aunt Joey & Uncle Mike. Dinner with my Dad... All a ton of fun. I'm a very lucky girl.
Over this past weekend, I received cards, calls, emails, songs, pillows, diamonds, pampering, make up, pj's, flowers, books, chocolate, movies, clothes, a digital camera, and mess free finger paint. I ask you, what did I ever do to deserve such awesome friends? Thank you all for making my birthday great....

Friends, Faith, and Chocolate Chip Pancakes...

I had a great discussion with Jessy last night. We talked for almost 2 hours about heaven and hell and Jesus, and the amazing gift of grace. She's lead a very different life than I have. Yet, at our core we are the same. It just amazes me how God has thrown us together. I ended the evening feeling alive and loved, but most importantly, I felt needed. It's so good to feel your value in someone else's life. I'm truly a blessed girl.
I'm spending this weekend with friends. I turn 26 on Sunday, and the weekend is filling up with all kinds of fun activities. Heidi is stealing me on Saturday. I have no clue what she has planned. Personally, I just like the idea of hanging out with my big sister. Sunday, Aunt Joey is coming to my house for breakfast. Knowing how we are, it could be something normal like pancakes and eggs, or it may lean towards the more bizarre style breakfast (Cheetos, melon, and artichoke hearts?). When we get together, you never can guess what might happen. I love stuff like that.
Life has been spinning at a faster rate of speed for me lately. I'm just glad to have a quiet moment, a cup of starbucks coffee, and a chance to share my thoughts.

If You Want Something Done...Do it YOURSELF!

Hi all,

Today I'm embarking on a new mission. As the weather gets warmer I find myself anxious to try new things. I started looking into my local swimming pools. I've always loved swimming and for me it is an excellent way to exercise and unwind. So far the most affordable location is the nearby Crystal Lake YMCA. After calling them and explaining my situation, they have agreed to let me use their pool at a very reasonable price, and have also given my assistant free access when she accompanies me. THIS IS GREAT right?

All except the minor problem of them not having a lift access into there pool. BIG PROBLEM!

I looked all over the internet for reasonably priced portable water lifts and I think I've found the best deal... All that remains now is to raise a small amount of money in order to benefit my entire community. I have spoken with the aquatics director for the local YMCA and in order to obtain a pool lift, one must be purchased and donated.

If you, or anyone you know might be interested in helping me raise the $5,000.00 needed to purchase
this lift, please feel free to contact me.

You can also mail in a contribution:

A. Peszat
4305 W. Shamrock Ln Apt 1G
McHenry, IL 60050

Check/money orders payable to: Amanda Peszat (YMCA Lift Fund)

Thanks everyone for your help and support. I know far more people than just myself will benefit from your generosity.

Sincerely,
Amanda

Seriously, How Cute is this DOG?

I've yet to meet one sweeter...

Timmy!

Anyone who has read this blog at all knows that I often take a time out here to highlight my fabulous friends and family. Today I definitely feel the need to shine the spotlight on my friend Becca. Truly God had a plan when He moved this girl to McHenry...
I've known Becca and her husband Mike for a while now, but we only really became close friends this past fall. In fact, the week I got Diva, Mike and Becca were the amazing couple who agreed to baby sit while I went to the women's retreat with Willow Creek. I have been blessed by these new friends.
Yet, it goes so much deeper than beers on the train and occasional "puppy sitting". Becca has become one of those people. You know the ones. After you meet them, it's impossible to imagine doing life without them. She would, and has, given me the clothes off her back. She "gets me" like few people I know. She loves the strangest things about me (My typing stick, bathroom time...). She even gets excited when I ask her for help! Here I am feeling stressed about asking for help, and she's just thrilled to jump in. She even thanked me once for letting her give me a shower. Can you imagine!?!?
This weekend I did something I rarely do. I allowed hurtful words to effect my heart and I then proceeded to have a mini meltdown. I originally called Becca to commiserate on how stupid and hurtful people can be. Once I started crying she jumped in her car and headed straight over. Of course, being a truly great friend, she stopped first to steal flowers for me from her neighbor's yard. =) They are sitting in my living room now to remind me that I'm loved. Does everyone get friends like this? I dearly hope so... Love ya Becca B. I'm so glad to know you!

Easter....

I love everything about Easter. It's my absolute favorite holiday. I like having an excuse to gather with my whole family. I love spending time with the people who matter most. It always feels like a fresh beginning at Easter. God set things right with the world, and I'm invited to do the same in my own life. I feel real hope at this time of the year. It's as if my spirits lift for a time, and I'm reminded of all that is possible.
I am a child of God! Does that blow anyone else's mind?!?! Easter is like a royal ball were every Prince, and Princess gathers to celebrate the KING! What must that party look like from heaven? I can't wait to see it first hand! I wish you all joy this Easter. I wish each person who reads this peace that passes understanding. May we remember that through Him, we are made ROYALTY. Let's embrace our fresh start, and do something remarkable with our lives.

God Bless!

Poor, Poor Puppies....

Yes, Diva is wearing a ring as a bracelet. How great is she?

Isn't Bagel cute? I love how smiley she is!

The Puppies are getting "fixed" tomorrow. I for one, am not handling this very well. I know Diva will be in good hands at Auntie Heidi's house, but this is the first time we've been apart since that first weekend I got her. It's hard to imagine my house without her. I like having her curled up next to me at night. I like how happy she is to pick me up at the train. I get her back from Heidi on Friday night or Saturday morning. I'm blessed to have such a sweet sister to look after my little girlie. I just can't wait to have her home again safe and sound.